About L. Dalton Potter Expertise I have been involved in the violin trade for over 28 years. I am currently the President of The Potter Violin Company in Bethesda, MD. I can offer clients initial advice on the value, authenticity and quality of almost all bowed string instruments (violins, violas, cellos & basses) using good quality digital photos. I would decline to give final evaluations without examining instruments in person.
Experience Experience in Music Business: Charlie Byrd's Music House; 1977 - 1980
Senior violin technician: Violin House of Weaver; 1980 - 1996.
President: The Potter Violin Company; 1996 - Present
Organizations: Founding member;String Industry Council, Violin Society of America, American String Teachers Association, Guild of American Luthiers,
Suzuki Association of America, Publications; Journal of the American String Teacher's Association, American Suzuki Journal Education/Credentials;Berklee College of Music 1974 - 1977
Awards and Honors: Chester J. Patranek Award for Excellence in the Music Industry
Traugott Rohner Leadership in the Music Industry Award
(26 years of service - too many to list)
Expert: L. Dalton Potter Date: 5/10/2008 Subject: Stainer violin
Question I have a violin labeled "Copie Jacobus Stainer in Absam prope Oenipontum MAde in Germany. On the back it is stamped Glass. Can you tell me anything about this instrument or its value?
Thank you in advance for your help.
Answer Hi Barbara,
The number of Stainer copies floating around almost out numbers the number of Stradivari copies. The name Glass is very common and there was a family of violin makers in Kligenthal in the 1700's and 1800's that were very highly thought of. Most likely your instrument's manufacturer was either related or was trying to capitalize on the familiarity of the name. I'm sorry I can't put a value on it without seeing it (digital photos work through the e-mail) but really, this is yard-sale/flea-market stuff. Typically, these instruments go for around $200 - $300 dollars depending upon condition.
